Govt asks Law Commission to look into implications of implementing uniform civil code

The Centre has asked the Law Commission, which has an advisory role on legal reform, to examine the implications of implementing a uniform civil code. Though the UCC has been the subject of much political controversy, this is the first time that a government has begun to investigate its on-ground implications.

A uniform civil code means that all personal laws of all communities will be set aside in favour of a common set of personal laws that cover issues such as property, marriage and divorce, inheritance and succession. Article 44 of the Constitution's Directive Principles makes the implementation of a uniform civil code the "duty of the State".

The law ministry has asked the Law Commission to "examine the matter in relation to uniform civil code and submit a report", according to The Economic Times. The letter was accompanied by documents that relate to existing case law and discussions on case law and the uniform civil code.

After discussions with stakeholders and experts, the Law Commission, headed by retired Supreme Court judge Balbir Singh Chauhan, will submit its report.

The issue of a uniform civil code has often become a debate on secularism. The Congress has always been against it and the BJP for it. Muslim groups in particular are known to oppose it.

Earlier in January, law minister DV Sadananda Gowda had said that the process of implementing a uniform civil code will "entail time because of so many personal laws across the country. There are so many other customs and rituals, and emotions attached to the issue. Slowly and steadily we need to put it in public domain."